Labornet Japan is a network of citizens, unionists, activists, scholars and others from all walks of life to share information especially about rights and struggles in and outside of Japan. Established in 2001, the group now has more than 500 members, and the membership is growing. The English site introduces some reports shared on Labornet Japan website and other sources outside of Japan.

Tuesday, April 23, 2013

Three of six women vendors of Tokyo subway newsstands who went on strike in March appeared in the labornet TV program on April 11 (see photo). "We were scared about possible negative impacts of the strike. We were shivering in fact. But we are truly happy with what we have done," they said. They work for Metro Commerce Co., a subsidiary of Tokyo Metro, on limited-term contract. After patiently negotiating with the company to improve the discriminatory conditions imposed on casual workers for years, they went on strike on March 18 in demand for abolishing the retirement age system. (For details of the epoch-making strike, see the article of April 7) "We were afraid that the customers would complain about the inconvenience caused. On the contrary, many of them encouraged us on the following day. Some said they had seen the youtube video and offered handshakes. This made us realize that many people are unsatisfied with their wages, but enduring just like us. We feel as if we had entered into the society for the first time with the strike. We are truly happy with the support extended by so many people. We feel confident and encouraged with the fact that we raised our voice and many people responded to our call," said USHIRO Ryoko, the president of the Metro Commerce local of National Union of General Workers Tokyo Tobu. The strike resulted in the six-month extension of the contract for SENUMA Kyoko, one of the members. "I think it is worthwhile devoting myself to the labor union movement. I will continue to make efforts for fellow members," said Senuma proudly. (By M) PhotosArchive video of the program(no subtitles)Video of the strike (no subtitles)